About Socotra

Socotra Island

The unique Socotra Archipelago lies between the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean and is part of the Republic of Yemen.

In 2008, Socotra was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Socotra is also known as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean.” Geologists consider the island the “most isolated piece of land” in Earth's history.

The Socotra Archipelago, located near the Gulf of Aden, stretches 250 km and consists of four islands and two rocky islets that appear to be an extension of the Horn of Africa. On the ancient continent of Gondwana, it was closest to Madagascar, India, Macaronesia, and the eastern coast of the African mainland.

This location is of unique importance due to its biological diversity with rich and distinctive flora and fauna: 37% of Socotra’s 825 plant species, 90% of its reptile species, and 95% of its land snail species are found nowhere else in the world.

Thanks to its location and uniqueness, Socotra offers pleasant climatic conditions for a variety of activities and for tourists seeking extraordinary experiences.

Whether you're a passionate traveler, adventurer, nature lover, botanist, or devoted biologist, fisherman, or diver, Socotra will reveal part of its prehistoric wealth that you would hardly find elsewhere in such abundance and combination.

The island offers endless kilometers of white coastline – without tourists and without tourist infrastructure.

The island's incredible diversity creates a fascinating landscape that is so interesting for Europeans that almost everyone lucky enough to see Socotra forms a strong connection with it.

Socotra is an attractive destination for trekking enthusiasts. Thanks to the pleasant climate, an easy hike can be managed by almost anyone. More demanding treks can be taken on by more sport-oriented tourists.

For water lovers, there is an amazing underwater world, whose incredible species diversity guarantees a unique spectacle. You can observe or even swim with dolphins and sharks, watch turtles, rays, and many other beautiful colorful fish living on coral reefs.

Socotra offers something special for everyone and will convince you that a pristine world still exists!

Top Highlights from Socotra